Before & After Care Camp Counselor

Before & After Care Camp Counselor (Project Management)

YMCA Camp Gathering Pines, in partnership with the Southdale YMCA in Edina, MN, is hiring a team of Before & After Care Camp Counselors (ages 18+) to provide extended care to campers participating in our summer camp programming in an outdoor environment. The position pays $16 per hour with shifts Monday‑Friday: 6:55 ‑ 9:30 AM and 3:00 ‑ 5:30 PM. Candidates may work both or either shift, estimated 12 ‑ 25 hours per week.

The role is seasonal:
June 15 ‑ September 4 (with required staff training starting May 27).

The Camp Counselor plans, leads, coordinates, and implements core and non‑core programs for children in small‑group settings. Responsibilities include ensuring general safety, fostering development, growth, and skill achievement, and delivering high‑quality outdoor educational and recreational experiences aligned with YMCA core values of caring, equity, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

• Assist with the direction, supervision, and organization of campers within activities and throughout camp to meet intended outcomes.
• Apply social‑emotional learning concepts and basic youth development principles, fostering communication, relationship building, diversity respect, engagement, and youth empowerment.
• Communicate and work with groups of all ages and levels, providing necessary.
• Supervise campers at all times and implement safety guidelines and procedures within all camp activities.
• Develop and implement program activities in alignment with the mission and outcomes, leading or assisting in teaching various activities.
• Provide a progression of activities within the framework of individual and group interests and abilities, including crafts, nature exploration, songs, games, swimming, archery, canoeing, and Family Night.
• Maintain high standards of health and mental health in all activities, providing daily care and responding appropriately to first‑aid situations.
• Enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, apply behavior‑management techniques, and administer medications as directed by the Camp Health Manager.
• Maintain accurate program records, including incident reports, documentation, and daily attendance.
• Ensure campsites remain clean, organized, and free of litter; report needed repairs promptly.
• Serve as a qualified adult supervisor per American Camp Association standards.
• Model YMCA core values and serve as a positive role model for campers and staff.
• Represent the camp with families, volunteers, and community members, communicating experiences and providing feedback.
• Guide junior counselors and volunteers to deepen their leadership and counseling skills.

This position reports to the Program Director, who reports to the Senior Program Director or Executive Director. The counselor works under guidance from a Camp Lead, Camp Manager, or Assistant Camp Director and interacts regularly with camp staff, campers, volunteers, and families from diverse backgrounds.

• Adult and Pediatric First Aid & CPR/AED certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Education, classes, or experience in camp, youth programs, recreation, working with children, or a related field.
• Ability to lead, plan, organize, and implement program activities for all age levels.
• Ability to work as part of a team and accomplish tasks with minimal supervision.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Minimum age of 18 years.

• Physical ability to lead and participate in activities including hiking, canoeing, swimming, building campfires, and physical games.
• Capability to carry up to 50 lbs and navigate uneven terrain.
• Acceptance of working in dirty, dusty, or potentially hazardous conditions.
• Willingness to use fire protection equipment, washers, dryers, dishwashers, and specialty program equipment.
• Ability to perform tasks such as reaching overhead, crouching, kneeling, shoveling, and navigating confined spaces.
• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to hazards.
• Ability to manage and support children for safety (weight 30‑200 lbs).
• Capacity to work outdoors in various climates with exposure to sun, heat, and wildlife such as bugs, snakes, horses, and chickens.

This job description outlines major functions of the position; it is not exhaustive. The incumbent may be directed to complete additional duties or projects as needed for camp or association success.